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Fire-Rescue Department

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1955 - Burnett Furniture Company

San Diego's first million dollar fire erupted on January 3, 1955. The third alarm fire at the Burnett Furniture Company at 7th and University was fought by more than 100 San Diego firefighters. Several firefighters were injured and overcome by smoke, including the Assistant Fire Chief. At the height of the fire, Fire Chief George Courser ordered three crews off the southwest corner of the roof. The Chief was the last to leave and the roof partially collapsed just as he jumped off.